Low-carb and keto recipes for the perfect picnic

If you’re planning a picnic, we suggest selecting food that tastes great either cold or lukewarm such as salads and pies. If you prefer to bring warm food, a big thermos is great for keeping stews or soups.

On a warm day it’s important to bring something to quench your thirst. A bottle of flavored water or sugar-free iced tea will do just that.

Feeling spontaneous?

A picnic is something you can also enjoy without going to too much effort. There are many great food options that can be picked up directly from your grocery store. It goes without saying, always check labels for added sugars, starches or other non-keto friendly ingredients.

Here are a few ideas of foods you can instantly add to your picnic basket direct from the store:

• Rotisserie chicken or ribs: A rotisserie chicken can make a great option for a picnic lunch and can easily be divided among quite a few guests. It may be worth noting that some marinades found on rotisserie meats have added sugar in them. Check the labels or ask the deli staff. The small amount of added sugar in the marinade is unlikely to be problematic. Alternatively, remove the skin of the chicken where most of the marinate is found, but be sure to combine other good healthy fats to complete your picnic meal.
• Coleslaw: Coleslaw is a super easy picnic side. Often the best option is to buy fresh coleslaw directly from the deli counter if this option is available.
• Store-bought sauces and sides: Béarnaise sauce, olive oil, aioli, guacamole, baba ganoush or a high-quality mayonnaise.
• Fish or seafood: Smoked salmon, sashimi, prawns or canned tuna.
• Cold cuts: Salami, ham, prosciutto, roast beef, turkey or chicken breast.
• Vegetables: Avocados, salad leaves, pimentos, peppers, cucumber and cherry tomatoes.
• Cheese: Any type of cheese works with the exception of breaded or highly processed varieties.
• Nuts: Pecans, brazils and macadamias are some of the best options.
• Olives: Head to your deli section to find these in easy to open and reseal containers and available in desired portion sizes.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries, blackberries and strawberries are good choices.

Ps. Don’t forget to pack a big blanket, napkins, plates, glasses, cutlery and maybe a fun game.

Top 6 fresh salads

When bringing a salad along for a picnic, it’s a good idea to keep the greens, protein and dressing or vinaigrette in separate containers until it’s time to eat, so that you don’t end up with a soggy salad.

Pies can be eaten warm or cold making them perfect for occasions like this. They’re also great if you want to prepare ahead of time.

If you prefer the idea of having your meal as an ‘all-in-one’, take a look at these wrap and sandwich style picnic options.

Keep hydrated on a hot summers day with one of our low carb drink recipes. Both hot and cold drinks transport well in a thermos and help maintain the correct serving temperature.

Looking for something special to finish off the day? If you’d like a little something extra in your picnic basket, choose from some of these low carb recipes treats or alternatively take along some fresh berries to share.